You’re not alone after adoption.
Adoption is a lifelong journey—and support doesn’t end after you finalize.
Michigan provides post-adoption services in every county that are designed to help adoptive families in a variety of ways. From offering support groups to connect with other families who understand to case management services where a qualified post-adoption specialist comes to your home, there are supports designed to help meet your family’s needs.
Post-Adoption Resource Centers (PARCs)
Michigan’s Post-Adoption Resource Centers (PARCs) provide services to families with children and young adults under age 21 with a finalized adoption who were:
- Adopted from Michigan’s foster care system
- Adopted in Michigan through international or direct consent/direct placement adoption
PARCs offer:
- Case management when families are facing challenges
- Assistance with adoption-related questions, including help with using medical subsidy
- Monthly support groups
- Quarterly trainings
- Family events
All adoptive families can call PARC with questions or take part in their support groups, training, and events.
Visit the state’s PARC website to learn more and locate your local PARC.
Michigan Adoption & Guardianship Assistance Office (AGAO)
The AGAO oversees financial and medical assistance for families who adopt children with special needs or take guardianship of children from foster care.
Assistance may include:
- Monthly adoption subsidy payments
- Non-recurring adoption expenses reimbursement
- Adoption medical subsidy, which can also include coverage for needs such as respite, orthodontics, or tutoring
Visit the AGAO website for more information.
Adoptive Family Support Network (AFSN)
AFSN provides adoptive and foster families statewide with community, education, and support. They answer questions, host events across Michigan, and maintain a listing of support groups throughout Michigan on their site. Their Parent-to-Parent support program provides a listening ear, knowledgeable guidance, and community connections for adoptive families. They also have an active Facebook page for parents.
Visit the AFSN website for more details.
Helpful Resource Sheets
The following handouts help connect families with services. They were created by Michigan's Adoption Oversight Committee, a collaboration between MDHHS, MARE, SCAO, private foster care and adoption agencies, and other support organizations.
- Post-Adoption Resource Toolkit
- Essential Resources for Adoptive, Guardian & Kinship Families
- Resources for Adopted Young Adults
- Therapist Guide